Rhode Island Mulls Banning Salvia, Jimson Weed

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The number of illegal drugs in Rhode Island could increase if state lawmakers pass a proposal to ban the recreational use of salvia divinorum and jimson weed.

The legislation would add the two substances to the state's list of prohibited drugs. Salvia divinorum is an herb related to mint that can be used as a hallucinogen. Jimson weed is a highly toxic plant that has also been known to be used recreationally as a hallucinogen.

Several states have already banned the recreational use of the two plants in recent years following reports about their use by teens and young adults.

The Rhode Island bill is sponsored by Rep. Arthur Corvese, a North Providence Democrat. The measure is scheduled for a vote in the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday.